Report: Leeds and Palace-linked striker can leave club for £17.75m

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Sky Italy journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has claimed that interested parties will have to spend a whopping £17.75million to sign Fiorentina striker Christian Kouame – amid links to both Leeds United and Crystal Palace.

Kouame, 23, has endured a difficult campaign in which he has largely played back-up striker. Of his 19 league and cup appearances for La Viola, the Ivory Coast international has only started seven. He is yet to complete 90 minutes.

The former Genoa striker reminded interested parties what he can do earlier this week, slamming a brilliant effort into the top corner during a Coppa Italia clash against Antonio Conte’s side, which Fiorentina lost 2-1 in extra-time.

Leeds are said to be interested, with La Nazione claiming Marcelo Bielsa specifically requested his addition. The Sun claimed in December that Palace were eyeing a move, and now both have learned he will cost £17.75million.

TBR’s view – Which team needs Kouame more?

Palace have numerous options up front. Christian Benteke is improving this season, largely thanks to Roy Hodgson’s slight change in tactics in which Palace have become more attacking. Jordan Ayew and Michy Batshuayi are back-up.

But at Elland Road, Leeds do not boast as many options up front. Patrick Bamford is in sensational form, scoring 10 in 17 Premier League games. But Tyler Roberts is being linked with a loan, while Rodrigo is better in midfield.

Perhaps a move to Bielsa’s Leeds would serve Kouame better than a trip to Selhurst Park.